Chicken Creamed Spinach Bacon

This chicken with creamed spinach bacon and mushrooms brings together everything I crave in comforting food juicy baked chicken topped with creamy garlicky spinach golden mushrooms smoky bacon and gooey melted cheese Each bite is loaded with flavor and the rich layers make it feel special enough for company even though it comes together easily on a weeknight

The first time I served this for friends everyone fought over leftovers and I have been making it for family dinners ever since it is that satisfying

Ingredients

• Chicken breast (skinless and boneless): For best results pick pieces that are similar in size so they cook evenly
• Butter: Adds richness to the chicken and helps prevent sticking
• Salt: Choose a fine grain salt and season to taste for proper seasoning throughout
• Lemon pepper seasoning: Brightens up the chicken with citrus notes check that it is fresh for the biggest impact
• Paprika: Adds gentle smokiness and color opt for sweet rather than hot paprika unless you want extra spice
• Vegetable oil: For sautéing spinach and mushrooms a neutral oil with a high smoke point works best
• Fresh spinach: Wilts down quickly and adds savory greens Look for vibrant leaves with no yellowing or mushy spots
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic layers in bold flavor If possible use fresh cloves rather than pre chopped or jarred
• Half and half: Makes the spinach lusciously creamy Heavy cream can be substituted for extra richness
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly and adds stretchy cheesy texture buy block cheese and shred yourself for best melt
• Mushrooms: Add earthiness and texture Clean them gently and slice evenly for even cooking
• Bacon: Gives it smoky salty savor Cook until perfectly crisp and drain excess fat before chopping
• Pepper Jack cheese or Monterey Jack with Jalapenos: Melts beautifully and brings a little kick Look for thin even slices from the deli for ideal coverage

Instructions

Oven Preparation:

Grease a 13 by 9 inch baking dish with butter making sure the bottom is completely coated for easy release and more flavor

Chicken Preparation:

Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt lemon pepper seasoning and paprika Lay each piece flat in the greased dish with the smooth side facing down This helps the chicken hold its shape and bake evenly Bake in the preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes depending on thickness

Creamed Spinach:

In a skillet heat vegetable oil over medium Add all the fresh spinach and cover to trap steam letting it wilt for 1 to 2 minutes Once reduced add minced garlic and pour in half and half Turn up the heat so it bubbles then sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella cheese Stir constantly as it melts and thickens into a silky mixture Season with a touch of salt and set aside

Mushrooms:

Wipe out the skillet or use a new one Add vegetable oil and heat to medium high Add sliced mushrooms in a single layer Do not salt them at this stage The lack of salt helps the mushrooms caramelize quickly into a deep golden hue Flip once so each side browns evenly in just a couple minutes Remove from heat and set aside

Assembly and Baking:

Remove chicken from the oven Arrange a generous layer of creamed spinach over each piece spoon the golden mushrooms and sprinkle the chopped bacon on top Place a slice of Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheese over everything so it melts and bubbles during the final bake Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the cheese is melted and starting to brown For extra bubbly cheese broil for two to four minutes at the end but watch carefully

My favorite part is the way the homemade creamed spinach turns silky under the cheese and bacon I always sneak a spoonful before it goes into the oven Since my kids love anything cheesy this dinner gets gobbled up faster than I can plate it

Storage Tips

This dish stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days in a tightly sealed container For the best results reheat gently in the oven or microwave covered loosely with foil to keep the chicken moist If making ahead assemble the dish but hold off on the final baking and cheese for freshest results

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken thighs for breasts if you want more juicy flavor Fresh kale works in place of spinach when you crave a heartier green Monterey Jack cheese is easily swapped for Pepper Jack if you prefer a mild flavor If you do not have half and half mix equal parts milk and cream

Serving Suggestions

Pair this with mashed potatoes crusty garlic bread or cauliflower rice for a complete meal A crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette keeps things bright Steamed green beans or roasted carrots add color and crunch

Cultural and Historical Context

Spinach and cheese stuffed chicken is a popular American family favorite and variations appear in classic diners and home kitchens across the country The idea of mixing creamed vegetables with meat goes back generations making it both comforting and nostalgic

Seasonal Adaptations

Mushrooms in season add even more flavor Try wild mushrooms in autumn for depth Use baby spinach in spring for a milder taste Add seasonal herbs like thyme or basil in summer

This is a dinner that always disappears fast and works for any season I hope it becomes a regular favorite at your table too

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain well before using, then cook as directed to prevent excess moisture.

→ What is a good substitute for Pepper Jack cheese?

Monterey Jack or mozzarella works well if you prefer a milder, less spicy cheese.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.

→ Are there other meats I could use for this dish?

Boneless pork chops or turkey breasts are suitable alternatives for a similar flavor profile.